James “Jim” Kleidon Dies at Age 63
Archaeologist Remembered as Dedicated Professional

On August 4, Crow Canyon lost an important member of its extended family when archaeologist James “Jim” Kleidon passed away at the age of 63.

Jim attended Purdue University in Indiana where he played football from 1966 to 1970. He went on to graduate from Fort Lewis College in 1977 with a degree in anthropology. Early in his archaeological career, Jim worked with the Dolores Archaeological Program, near Dolores, Colorado, where he forged friendships with colleagues that lasted throughout his life.

Jim was employed by Crow Canyon in the mid 1980s until the early 1990s. He worked with Bruce Bradley at Sand Canyon Pueblo, directing excavations at various parts of the site. He also directed excavations at three sites during the Site Testing Program—Castle Rock Pueblo, Saddlehorn Hamlet, and Mad Dog Tower. He wrote chapters on those sites that were published in the Site Testing Program final report, and he also coauthored a chapter in the volume The Sand Canyon Archaeological Project.

“Jim was a dedicated professional who was committed to excellence in all his work,” said Crow Canyon Research and Education Chair Mark Varien. “He was loved by all who knew him; he was exceptionally kind, thoughtful, and caring. He will be greatly missed by his friends, family, and colleagues.”

Jim is survived by his wife, Karol; daughter, Kendra Ann Kleidon; a brother; sister-in-law; four nieces; and one nephew. In lieu of flowers, his family requested that memorial contributions be made to Crow Canyon in Jim’s name.[PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION]